Kempe

Author Adrian Barlow
Publisher Lutterworth £25  2019
Format pbk
ISBN 9780718894634

This elegant book describes the life, art and legacy of Charles Eamer Kempe (1837-1907), one of the great masters of late Victorian and Edwardian church artworks. A glance in the index of any church guidebook – for example Betjeman or Jenkins – will reveal numerous entries under Kempe’s name, usually the glass. In fact there is a catalogue, still in print, listing more than 3000 Kempe windows in the United Kingdom and Ireland. This abundant legacy indicates not only the popularity, but also the quality of the work that came from Kempe’s studio or his school of artists and craftsmen. His style, similar but distinct from the Pre-Raphaelites, usually reflects medieval or early renaissance influences. Kempe’s patrons included members of the royal family and eminent church leaders, and thus his work is found in many cathedrals as well as parish churches. This well-researched, scholarly book is full of delightful illustrations. Weighty and meticulous, it will prove an excellent investment for all those who love stained glass and late Victorian Christian art.
KATE BURTON